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Written By Bradford Cuthrell
Last Updated April 2024
If you're like the average American, over half of your energy bill (55%, per the U.S. Department of Energy) goes toward heating and cooling your home. With so much money spent on cooling and heating your Helena-West Helena home, you want to make sure you're getting the best return on your investment.
Explore our list of the top HVAC companies in Helena-West Helena to find the best one for you and your home. Our topic contractors can help you reduce your bills while still staying comfortable.
Our Rating
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Informative resources
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Prompt service delivery
Reliable customer support
Informative resources
Free quote
Services Offered
Our Rating
Clear pricing policy
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Services Offered
Our Rating
Prompt service delivery
Free quote
Informative resources
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Prompt service delivery
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Reliable customer support
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Informative resources
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Free quote
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Our Rating
Reliable customer support
Free quote
Prompt service delivery
Informative resources
Clear pricing policy
Services Offered
Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on hvac companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:
An HVAC system that's malfunctioning or past its lifespan likely needs professional attention for maintenance or replacement. Watch for these signs that your system needs service:
These HVAC red flags indicate that you should have your system evaluated. A local technician can complete an inspection, diagnose problems, and recommend repairing or replacing your HVAC unit.
The price of HVAC installation or maintenance changes depending on the type of unit you have. Common varieties of HVAC units include the following:
HVAC maintenance prices vary depending on what services are needed. HVAC systems are complex and might require different kinds of maintenance. Costs for some common services are as follows:
HVAC Unit Type | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Split | $1,659-$4,228 | |
Hybrid Split | $3,361-$6,191 | |
Heat Pump | $2,602-$26,515 | |
Packaged Heating and Air | $218-$363 |
HVAC upkeep is important, but can be pricey. Luckily, there are steps homeowners can take to reduce wear and tear on their system and lower future maintenance needs.
Service | Cost | |
---|---|---|
Filter Replacement | $54-$145 | |
Condensor Cleaning | $1,089-$3,266 | |
Thermostat Repair | $73-$181 | |
Ductwork Cleaning | $348-$871 |
Knowing what makes a trustworthy HVAC company is key for a successful installation or repair. An experienced, credentialed HVAC contractor gives you confidence your system can provide reliable heating and air conditioning year-round.
Contact at least three HVAC companies for quotes. Explain the issues and have technicians visit to inspect your system if possible. Compare the contractors' explanations, solutions, estimated costs, timeframes, and warranties. Avoid companies that pressure you or demand payment upfront.
Choose an HVAC company with skilled technicians who have proper licensing and experience. In all states, HVAC contractors have federal requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To obtain the EPA Section 608 Technician Certification, individuals must pass an exam (the type of exam depends on the kind of equipment they intend to work with). Section 608 certification is required for all technicians who "maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants into the atmosphere." All other licensing requirements are handled on a state-by-state basis.
In Arkansas, HVAC contractors must be licensed by the Department of Labor and Licensing's State Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, & Refrigeration Board. To receive a license, contractors must have at least two years of experience. To maintain a license, contractors are required to complete yearly continuing education. Checking reviews on Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and similar sites can aid your decision as well. Choose a provider with great reviews and reports of positive experiences from customers.
Always make sure you know the details of a planned project. For HVAC repairs, your provider should list which parts require replacement and why. Confirm that your technician will clean and test the full system after repairs are completed to verify that it’s working properly. When replacing your HVAC system, ask the contractor to describe the new energy efficiency, estimated installation time, model, features, and brand. Before work starts, ask about the process your provider will use to properly size the new system for your home and how much it will cost.
Reliable HVAC companies provide warranties for their work. Broader coverage is better, so make sure to compare warranties between providers. Choose the one that gives you the most coverage at a reasonable cost.
Get written estimates before beginning any HVAC work. The quote should outline costs for both materials and labor. Read all terms carefully before signing.
You should have your HVAC system inspected twice annually. After completing their inspection, your technician will tell you what services are required. You should also call a technician if you start noticing issues such as strange noises, leaks, or unusual smells. If your system has ductwork, you should have it inspected every few years.
Usually, you should have your HVAC system inspected in the spring and fall, as technicians tend to be less busy at these times. This also helps get your system ready for the summer and winter, when it likely sees the most use.
You can save energy during the summer by reducing the amount of power your HVAC system uses to keep your home cool. Keep your thermostat temperature as close to the outside temperature as you comfortably can, and try to avoid making drastic changes in temperature all at once. Keep your roof well-maintained and seal any leaks around your windows and doors to help keep cool air in. Similarly, make sure your attic is well ventilated to avoid trapping excess heat in your home.
Generally, HVAC installation or replacement takes between one and three days for the entire system. Installing or replacing an air conditioning unit or a furnace may take anywhere from a few hours up to two days. The exact amount of time will vary depending on things like the size of your home, how easily accessible different areas are, and whether your technician discovers any problems.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you need around 2.5 to 5 tons of air conditioning capacity. In Helena-West Helena, you'll probably want to purchase a unit on the higher end of this range. For a house over 1,000 square feet, central air will be more effective than window units for cooling.
For a 2,000-square-foot home, you'll also look for a furnace that is between 50,000 and 80,000 BTUs (British thermal units). In Helena-West Helena, you might be able to make do with a lower-capacity furnace.
Your HVAC company might have financing options through a third-party lender, or you may be able to obtain your own loan. It's a good idea to discuss payment options with your HVAC company and a financial advisor to make sure that you find the best option for you.
There are a number of ways you can make your HVAC system more energy-efficient: